Video card with interchangeable connector module

ABSTRACT

A video card for processing a video signal comprises an interchangeable connector module and a video processing module. The interchangeable connector module has a specific configuration. The video processing module has a connector for coupling the interchangeable connector module. The specific configuration of the interchangeable connector module sets the characteristics of the video processing module.

PRIORITY

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/632,605 (the '605 Application) filed on Aug. 4, 2000, andincorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference.

The '605 Application, in turn, claims priority from co-pendingprovisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/147,668, filed Aug. 6,1999, entitled “GRAPHICS WORKSTATION”, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference and co-pendingprovisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 60/147,609, filed Aug. 6,1999, entitled “DATA PACKER FOR GRAPHICAL WORKSATION”, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/632,558, filed on even date herewith, entitled “WORKSTATION FORPROCESSING AND PRODUCING A VIDEO SIGNAL”, naming Jeff S. Ford, ClaudeDenton, Jeff Belote, and David J. Stradley as inventors, the disclosureof which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference, U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/632,662, filed on even date herewith,entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRE-PROCESSING A VIDEO SIGNAL”, namingJeff S. ford and David J. Stradley as inventors, the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/632,452, filed on even date herewith, entitled“SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A VIDEO SIGNAL”, naming Jeff S. Fordand Claude Denton as inventors, the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein, in its entirety, by reference, U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/632,443, filed on even date herewith, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FORFRAME RATE MATCHING”, naming Jeff S. Ford as inventor, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by reference, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/632,451, filed on even date herewith,entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PACKING AND UNPACKING VIDEO DATA”,naming Jeff S. Ford, Arthur McKinney and Craig Jordan as inventors, thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to a video graphics workstation and,more particularly, the invention relates to interchangeable connectormodules for use in video cards.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In general, a video graphics workstation is a system of hardware andsoftware that allows a user to process a video signal for use in anumber of different applications. For example, the user may process avideo signal for display on a computer monitor, for storage on acomputer-readable storage medium, for display on a television, or forstorage on a video tape.

Typically, however, video graphics workstations are designed to processparticular video signals. Thus, most video graphics workstations are notscalable. In other words, most video graphics workstations are notdesigned to adapt to the changing needs of the workstation's user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a video input system forprocessing video signals comprises a video input module and a videoprocessing module. The video input module converts a first live videosignal, has a specific configuration, and produces a first formattedvideo signal. The video processing module pre-processes the firstformatted video signal, producing a first pre-processed video signal.The video processing module has a connector for coupling the video inputmodule and the specific configuration of the video input module sets thecharacteristics of the video processing module.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the video input module mayfurther comprises a first receiver for receiving the first live videosignal, a processor for converting the first live video signal into thefirst formatted video signal, and a buffer for storing the firstformatted video signal.

In a still further embodiment of the invention, the video input modulemay further comprise a second receiver for receiving a second live videosignal, a switcher for selecting between the first live video signal andthe second live video signal, the switcher forwarding the selected livevideo signal to the processor for conversion into the first formattedvideo signal or a second formatted video signal, and the buffer storingthe first formatted video signal and the second formatted video signal.The video input module may also include an ancillary data extractor forremoving ancillary data from the first live video signal.

In alternate embodiments of the invention, the first live video signalmay be an analog composite video signal, an analog component videosignal, a serial digital composite video signal, a serial digitalcomponent video signal, a parallel digital composite video signal, or aparallel digital component video signal. In addition, the first livevideo signal may be the same as the second live video signal. Further,the second live video signal may be an analog composite video signal, ananalog component video signal, a serial digital composite video signal,a serial digital component video signal, a parallel digital compositevideo signal, or a parallel digital component video signal. Also, thefirst formatted video signal may include 20-bits for color data and10-bits for alpha data. Plus, the first pre-processed video signal maybe an RGB encoded video signal, an RGBA encoded video signal, a YUV-Typeencoded video signal, or a YUVA-Type encoded video signal.

In further alternate embodiments of the invention, the process ofpre-processing may include changing the sample rate of the video signalbeing pre-processed, gamma removal, gamma insertion, color spaceconversion, dithering, and scaling. In addition, the process ofpre-processing may include addressing on a frame-by-frame basis thevideo signal being pre-processed. Further, the video input system may bea Peripheral Component Interconnect circuit board.

In still further alternate embodiments of the invention, thepre-processed video signal may be forwarded to a video output system.Or, the pre-processed video signal may be forwarded to a storage medium.Or, the pre-processed video signal may be forwarded to a video graphicsprocessor.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method and systemfor producing video signals comprises a video processing module and avideo output module. The video processing module post-processes a videosignal, producing a post-processed video signal and having a connectorfor coupling a video output module. The video output module converts thepost-processed video signal, has a specific configuration, and producesa formatted video signal. The specific configuration of the video outputmodule sets the characteristics of the video processing module.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the video output module mayfurther comprise a buffer for storing the post-processed video signal, aprocessor for converting the post-processed video signal into theformatted video signal, and a transmitter for transmitting the formattedvideo signal.

In a still further embodiment of the invention, the video output modulemay include an ancillary data injector for inserting ancillary data intothe post-processed video signal.

In alternate embodiments of the invention, the video signal may be anRGB encoded video signal, an RGBA encoded video signal, a YUV-Typeencoded video signal, or a YUVA-Type encoded video signal. In addition,the formatted video signal may be an analog composite video signal, ananalog component video signal, a serial digital composite video signal,a serial digital component video signal, a parallel digital compositevideo signal, or a parallel digital component video signal.

In further alternate embodiments of the invention, the video signal maybe forwarded from a storage medium. Or, the video signal may beforwarded from a video graphics processor. Or, the video signal may beforwarded from a video input system.

In still further alternate embodiments of the invention, the process ofpost-processing may include region of interest selection, frame ratematching, scaling, picture framing, letter boxing, changing the samplerate of the video signal being post-processed, gamma removal, gammainsertion, color space conversion, and changing frames of video datainto interleaved fields of video data. In addition, the process ofpost-processing may include addressing on a frame-by-frame basis thevideo signal being post-processed. Further, the video output system maybe a Peripheral Component Interconnect circuit board.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention will beappreciated more fully from the following further description thereofwith reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary video graphics workstationfor implementing the various embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 2 a through 2 b show various exemplary embodiments for a videoinput system for use in a video graphics workstation.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment for a scalable video input systemfor use in a video graphics workstation.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b show various exemplary exploded views for mounting aninterchangeable connector module to a video processing module.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment for a video output system for usein a video graphics workstation.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment for a scalable video output systemfor use in a video graphics workstation.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary video graphics workstation for carrying outvarious exemplary video graphics applications.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary process in a video graphics workstation forvideo signal frame rate matching.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b show an exemplary process in a video graphicsworkstation for packing and unpacking pixels.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a video graphicsworkstation includes three sub-systems—a video input system, a videographics processor, and a video output system. In general, the videoinput system pre-processes video signals, the video graphics processorprocesses and/or displays video signals and graphics input, and thevideo output system produces video signals. The video signals processedand produced may be analog video signals or digital video signals.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary video graphics workstationfor implementing the various embodiments of the invention. Videographics workstation 100 includes central processing unit 102, chipset104, memory 106, two Peripheral Component Interconnect (“PCI”) buses—a64-bit PCI bus and a 32-bit PCI bus, and an Accelerated Graphics Port(“AGP”). Video input system 110 and storage medium 120 connect tochipset 104 via the 64-bit PCI bus. Video graphics processor 130connects to chipset 104 via the AGP. Video output system 140 connects tochipset 104 via the 32-bit PCI bus. In addition, video input system 110connects to video graphics processor 130 via local bus 182 and videooutput system 140 connects to video graphics processor 130 via local bus184.

A. Video Input System

FIGS. 2 a through 2 b show various exemplary embodiments for video inputsystem 110. In particular, FIG. 2 a shows an exemplary embodiment forpre-processing a live video signal in video input system 110. Theprocess of pre-processing a video signal includes, among other things,up sampling, down sampling, gamma insertion, gamma removal, color spaceconversion, scaling and dithering. For purposes of understanding andreference, and without intending to limit the meaning theabove-identified processes have to a person of ordinary skill in theart, listed below are definitions for the above-identified processes:

PROCESS DEFINITION Up Sampling Process of increasing the amount ofdigital data used to represent an image Down Sampling Process ofdecreasing the amount of digital data used to represent an image GammaInsertion Process of inserting a value to compensate for the non-linearcharacteristics of an output device (e.g., a computer-monitor) GammaRemoval Process of removing a value inserted to compensate for thenon-linear characteristics of an output device (e.g., a computermonitor) Color Space Process of converting between Conversion differentcolor encoding schemes (e.g., between a component color scheme and acomposite color scheme) Scaling Process of changing the resolution of animage Dithering Process of combining colors to trick the eye into seeingmore colors than the system can actually display

In addition, pre-processing may include addressing on a frame-by-framebasis the video signal being pre-processed. In video, a frame is asingle complete image. In frame-by-frame addressing, video input system110 may pre-process one frame of a video signal different than, forexample, the next frame of the video signal.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 a, video input system 110 includesvideo input module 200, input multiplexer 212, input multiplexer 222,pipeline 210, pipeline 220, output multiplexer 214, and outputmultiplexer 224. Video input module 200 receives a live video signal andforwards the live video signal to, for example, a buffer (not shown) fortransfer to pipeline 210 and/or pipeline 220. The live video signal maybe an analog video signal or a digital video signal. If the live videosignal is an analog video signal, then video input module 200 convertsthe live video signal into a computer-readable format.

The input multiplexers, multiplexer 212 and multiplexer 222, route therespective video signal to the pipelines. In particular, multiplexer 212routes video signals to pipeline 210 and multiplexer 222 routes videosignals to pipeline 220. The pipelines, pipeline 210 and pipeline 220,pre-process the forwarded video signal. The output multiplexers,multiplexer 214 and multiplexer 224, route the pre-processed videosignals to, for example, various output buffers (not shown) accessibleto video graphics workstation 100. For example, the pre-processed videosignal may be forwarded, via the 64-bit PCI bus and the AGP, to videographics processor 130. Or, the pre-processed video signal may beforwarded, via the 64-bit PCI bus and the 32-bit PCI bus, to videooutput system 140. The pre-processed video signal may also be forwarded,via the 64-bit bus, to storage medium 120.

FIG. 2 b shows an exemplary embodiment for preprocessing a live videosignal and a stored video signal in video input system 110. In thisembodiment, pipeline 210 and pipeline 220 pre-process a live videosignal and/or a stored video signal. Typically, the stored video signalis forwarded from, for example, storage medium 120, to a buffer (notshown) to allow for efficient transfer of the stored video signal tovideo input system 110.

With two pipelines, a single live, or stored, video signal may reachpipeline 210 and pipeline 220. Thus, two versions of a single live, orstored, video signal may be generated at the same time. For example,video input system 110 may receive a television signal and pre-processthe television signal via pipeline 210 for display on a computer monitorand via pipeline 220 for storage on storage medium 120. In addition,using frame-by-frame addressing, video input system 110 may pre-processmore than two video signals substantially at the same time. In thisembodiment, the frames of the different video signals are interleavedand routed to pipeline 210 and pipeline 220. Moreover, video inputsystem 110 may pass a video signal, either live or stored, throughpipeline 210 and/or pipeline 220 without pre-processing the videosignal.

In a further embodiment of video input system 110, video input module200 receives and forwards more than one live video signal to, forexample, a buffer (not shown) for transfer to pipeline 210 and/orpipeline 220. The live video signals may be analog video signals ordigital video signals. If the live video signal is an analog videosignal, then video input module 200 converts the live video signal intoa computer-readable format. For each received live video signal, videoinput module 200 produces a forwarded video signal.

In a further embodiment of these exemplary embodiments, video inputmodule 200 includes an ancillary data extractor 226 for removingancillary data from a live video signal. Typically, the ancillary datais removed from the live video signal prior to receipt of the live videosignal in the input multiplexers, multiplexer 212 and multiplexer 214.Ancillary data includes, among other things, audio data and closecaptioning data.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment for a scalable video input system110. In this embodiment, video input system 110 includes video inputmodule 300 and video processing module 350. Video input module 300includes receiver 302, processor 304, and buffer 306. Receiver 302receives a live video signal and forwards the live video signal toprocessor 304. Processor 304 converts the received video signal into avideo signal having a common video data format. The formatted videosignal is then forwarded to buffer 306 for transfer to video processingmodule 350. In alternate embodiments of the invention, video inputmodule 300 may include an ancillary data extractor for removingancillary data from a live video signal.

Video processing module 350 includes input multiplexer 352, pipeline354, and output multiplexer 356. As discussed above in regard to theembodiments shown in FIG. 2, video processing module 350 pre-processesthe formatted video signal and/or a stored video signal and routes thepre-processed video signal to, for example, a buffer (not shown)accessible to video graphics workstation 100. Video processing module350 may have two pre-processing pipelines. In addition, thepre-processed video signal may be forwarded to video graphics processor130, video output system 140, and/or storage medium 120.

The common video data format may be an organized bit stream. As notedabove, a frame is a single complete image. An image, in turn, iscomposed of a raster of picture elements, referred to as pixels. A pixelis represented by some number of bits stored, for example, in memory.Pixels are the smallest “units” on a screen that can be given a color(represented with color data) and an opacity (represented with alphadata). Thus, an organized bit stream may include color data, alpha data,or color data and alpha data. For example, a bit stream with color datamay include 20-bits for color data. In contrast, a bit stream for alphadata my include 10-bits for alpha data. Pipeline 354 may pre-processcolor data separate from alpha data. In this embodiment, a color databit stream may be forwarded on a an output different from the outputused to forward alpha data.

In these exemplary embodiments, video input module 300 and videoprocessing module 350 are separate modules coupled together via, forexample, male/female cables. In one embodiment, video input module 300is a daughterboard that plugs into video processing module 350. Theseparation of the various functions of a video input system into a videoinput module and a video processing module allows for the separation ofvideo input module 300 and video processing module 350.

In turn, the separation of video input module 300 from video processingmodule 350 allows for the configuration of various video input modules,each configured to receive and process different video signal formats.Because the “input” functions of video input system 110 have beenseparated from the “processing” functions of video input system 110,video input module 300 may be “exchanged” without the need to replacevideo processing module 350. Thus, when a user wants to input, forexample, a serial digital component video signal into video input system110 instead of an analog composite video signal, the user “exchanges”the video input module configured for the analog composite video signalwith a video input module configured for the serial digital componentvideo signal. In turn, processor 304 (on the “new” video input module)signals video processing module 350 of the new configuration.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b show various exemplary exploded views for mounting aninterchangeable connector module, such as video input module 300, to aprocessing module, such as video processing module 350. In FIG. 4 a,interchangeable connector module 400 includes connectors 402 andmounting holes 404. Circuit board 450 includes plate 455. Plate 455includes connector holes 452 and mounting holes 454. Plate assembly 430includes plate 435 a and two screws (not shown). Plate 435 a includesconnector holes 432 a and mounting holes 434 a. Connectors 402 aredesigned to fit through connector holes 432 and 452. The two screws,passing through mounting holes 434 a and mounting holes 454, secureinterchangeable-connector module 400 to circuit board 450 via mountingholes 404.

In FIG. 4 b, plate assembly 430 further includes plate 435 b and gaskets436. Gaskets 436 are designed to improve electromagnetic shielding. Forexample, gaskets 436 may be composed of a rubber compound with embeddedsilver. For the exemplary embodiments shown in both FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4b, in operation, interchangeable connector module 400 would also becoupled (not shown) to processing module 450.

B. Video Graphics Processor

Various exemplary embodiments of a video graphics processor aredisclosed in the following:

-   -   1. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/353,495, filed Jul. 15,        1999, and entitled “MULTIPROCESSOR GRAPHICS ACCELERATOR,” the        disclosure of which is hereby incorporated, in its entirety, by        reference;    -   2. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/354,462, filed Jul. 15,        1999, and entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD OF DIRECTING GRAPHICAL        DATA TO A DISPLAY DEVICE,” the disclosure of which is hereby        incorporated, in its entirety, by reference;    -   3. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/353,420, filed Jul. 15,        1999, and entitled “WIDE INSTRUCTION WORD GRAPHICS PROCESSOR,”        the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated, in its entirety,        by reference; and    -   4. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/353,419, filed Jul. 15,        1999, and entitled “SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING A TELEVISION SIGNAL ON        A COMPUTER MONITOR,” the disclosure of which is hereby        incorporated, in its entirety, by reference.

C. Video Output System

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment for video output system 140. InFIG. 5, video output system 140 includes receiver 500, pipeline 510, andvideo output module 520. Receiver 500 receives a video signal andforwards the received video signal to, for example, a buffer (not shown)for transfer to pipeline 510. The received video signal may be formattedin one of many different video data formats. For example, the receivedvideo signal may be an RGB encoded video signal or an RGBA encoded videosignal. An RGR encoded video signal encodes an image in accordance withthe amount of red, green, or blue contained in the image. An RGBAencoded video signal further encodes an image in accordance with theamount of opacity contained in the image.

The received video signal may also be a “YUV-Type” encoded video signalor a “YUVA-Type” encoded video signal. A “YUV-Type” encoded video signalencodes an image in accordance with the amount of luma (black and white)and color differences contained in the image. A “YUVA-Type” encodedvideo signal further encodes an image in accordance with the amount ofopacity contained in the image. A “YUV-Type” encoded video signalincludes, among other things, a YUV encoded video signal, a YCbCrencoded video signal, and a YPbPr encoded video signal. A “YUVA-Type”encoded video signal includes, among other things, a YUVA encoded videosignal, a YCbCrA encoded video signal, and a YPbPrA encoded videosignal.

Pipeline 510 post-processes the forwarded video signal and forwards thepost-processed video signal to video output module 520. The process ofpost-processing includes, among other things, region of interestselection, frame rate matching, spatial adaptation, up sampling, downsampling, gamma insertion, gamma removal, and color space conversion.Spatial adaptation includes, among other things, scaling and pictureframing. Picture framing includes, among other things, letter boxing.For purposes of understanding and reference, and without intending tolimit the meaning the above-identified processes have to a person ofordinary skill in the art, listed below are definitions for theabove-identified processes not previously defined:

PROCESS DEFINITION Region of Interest Process of selecting a portion ofan Selection image for post-processing Frame Rate See Section E.Matching Picture Framing Process of positioning an image on a and LetterBoxing background image

In addition, post-processing may include addressing on a frame-by-framebasis the video signal being post-processed. In frame-by-frameaddressing, video output system 140 may post-process one frame of avideo signal different than, for example, the next frame of the videosignal. Also, post-processing may include changing a frame of video datainto interlaced fields of video data. In using this process, videooutput system 140 “blends” single or multiple lines from a frame in aninput video signal into a single line in an output video signal, e.g.,3:2 pull-down.

Video output module 520 converts the post-processed video signal to aformatted video signal. The formatted video signal may be an analogvideo signal or a digital video signal.

Typically, video output system 140 also includes a generator lockingdevice, referred to as a genlock, which allows the synchronized displayof graphics and video. A genlock may lock video output system 140 to,for example, video graphics processor 130. In addition, regardless ofwhether video output system 140 is locked to video graphics processor130, a genlock may lock video output module 520 to another source, e.g.,an external clock, an internal clock, etc.

In a further embodiment of these exemplary embodiments, video outputmodule 520 includes an ancillary data injector 522 for insertingancillary data into the post-processed video signal prior to conversionof the post-processed video signal. As noted above, ancillary dataincludes, among other things, audio data and close captioning data.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment for a scalable video output system140. In this embodiment, video output system 140 includes videoprocessing module 600 and video output module 650. Video processingmodule 600 includes receiver 602 and pipeline 604. As discussed above inregard to the embodiments shown in FIG. 3, video processing module 600receives a video signal, post-processes the received video signal, andforwards the post-processed video signal to video output module 650.Video processing module 600 may include a generator locking device forlocking video processing module 600 to, for example, video graphicsprocessor 130.

Video-output module 650 includes buffer 652, processor 654, andtransmitter 656. Video processing module 600 forwards the post-processedvideo signal to buffer 652 for transfer to processor 654. Processor 654converts the post-processed video signal into a formatted video signal,e.g., an analog composite video signal, a parallel digital componentvideo signal, etc. The formatted video signal is then forwarded totransmitter 656. In alternate embodiments of the invention, video outputmodule 650 may include an ancillary data injector for insertingancillary data into the post-processed video signal.

In these exemplary embodiments, video output module 650 and videoprocessing module 600 are separate modules coupled together via, forexample, male/female cables. In one embodiment, video output module 650is a daughterboard that plugs into video processing module 600. Theseparation of the various functions of a video output system into avideo output module and a video processing module allows for theseparation of video output module 650 and video processing module 600.

In turn, the separation of video output module 650 from video processingmodule 600 allows for the configuration of various video output modules,each configured to process and produce different video signal formats.Because the “output” functions of video output system 140 have beenseparated from the “processing” functions of video output system 140,video output module 650 may be “exchanged” without the need to replacevideo processing module 600. Thus, when a user wants to output, forexample, a serial digital component video signal instead of an analogcomposite video signal, the user “exchanges” the video output moduleconfigured for the analog composite video signal with a video outputmodule configured for the serial digital component video signal. Inturn, processor 654 (on the “new” video output module) signals videoprocessing module 600 of the new configuration.

As an interchangeable connector module, video output module 650 may bemounted on video processing module 600, a processing module, in themanner shown in FIGS. 4 a and 4 b.

D. Exemplary Video Graphics Applications

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary video graphics workstation implementing oneembodiment of the invention for carrying out various exemplary videographics applications. In this embodiment, video input system 730includes two pipelines, pipeline 732 and pipeline 734. In addition,video output system 750 forwards a formatted video signal to a videotape recorder for recordation.

In one application, video graphics workstation 700 captures a live videosignal. First, video graphics workstation 700 receives the live videosignal. Next, the received video signal is pre-processed in pipeline 732of video input system 730. Then, the pre-processed video signal isforwarded, via the 64-bit PCI bus, to storage medium 720.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 captures anddisplays a live video signal. First, video graphics workstation 700receives the live video signal. Next, the received video signal ispre-processed in both pipeline 732 and pipeline 734 of video inputsystem 730. Then, the pre-processed video signal from pipeline 732 isforwarded, via the 64-bit PCI bus, to storage medium 720. In theinterim, the pre-processed video signal from pipeline 734 is forwarded,via local bus 782, to video graphics processor 740 for display oncomputer monitor 760. The pre-processed video signal from pipeline 734may also be forwarded to video graphic processor 740 via the 64-bit PCIbus and the AGP. In alternate embodiments, the pre-processed videosignal from pipeline 734 may be forwarded, via the 64-bit bus and the32-bit bus, to video output system 750 for recordation on video taperecorder 770.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 plays back astored video signal. First, video graphics workstation 700 forwards astored video signal, via the 64-bit PCI bus to video input system 730.Next, the stored video signal is pre-processed in pipeline 732. Then,the pre-processed video signal is forwarded, via local bus 782, to videographics processor 740 for display on computer monitor 760. In analternate embodiment, the pre-processed video signal may also beforwarded, via local bus 784, to video output system 750 for recordationon video tape recorder 770.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 processes astored video signal, for example, performs a two-dimensional orthree-dimensional effect on the stored video signal, and displays theprocessed video signal. First, video graphics workstation 700 forwards astored video signal, via the 64-bit PCI bus, to video input system 730.Next, the stored video signal is pre-processed in pipeline 732. Then,the pre-processed video signal is forwarded, via local bus 782, to videographics processor 740 for “effects” processing and display on acomputer monitor 760. In an alternate embodiment, the processed videosignal may also be forwarded, via local bus 784, to video output system750 for recordation on video tape recorder 770.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 pre-processes astored video signal and saves the pre-processed video signal. First,video graphics workstation 700 forwards a stored video signal, via the64-bit PCI bus, to video input system 730. Next, the stored video signalis pre-processed in pipeline 732. Then, the pre-processed video signalis forwarded, via the 64-bit PCI bus, to storage medium 720. Inalternate embodiments, the pre-processed video signal may be forwarded,via the 64-bit PCI bus, to central processing unit 715 or to memory 710.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 processes astored video signal and saves the processed video signal. First, videographics workstation 700 forwards a stored video signal, via the 64-bitPCI bus, to video input system 730. Next, the stored video signal ispre-processed in pipeline 732. Then, the pre-processed video signal isforwarded, via local bus 782, to video graphics processor 740 for“effects” processing. Last, the processed video signal is forwarded, vialocal bus 782, to video input system 730. Video input system 730 maypre-process the processed video signal, for example, to convert theprocessed signal to a format better suited for saving, or forward theprocessed signal, via the 64-bit PCI bus, to storage medium 720.

In another application, video graphics workstation 700 combines a livevideo signal, a stored video signal, and graphics information andrecords the combined video signal. First, video graphics workstation 700receives a live video signal. Next, the received video signal ispre-processed in pipeline 732 of video input system 730. In the interim,video graphics workstation 700 forwards a stored video signal to videoinput system 730. Next, the stored video signal is pre-processed inpipeline 734. Then, graphics information (via the AGP), thepre-processed video signal from pipeline 732 (via local bus 782), andthe pre-processed video signal from pipeline 734 (via local bus 782) areforwarded to video graphics processor 740 for “effects” processing.Last, the processed video signal is forwarded, via local bus 784, tovideo output system 750 for recordation on video tape recorder 770.

E. Frame Rate Matching

As discussed above, a frame is a single complete image. Typically, aframe is represented, in a video graphics workstation, with frame data.In general, frame rate is how fast a new frame of frame data, in otherwords, an new image, is available for processing or display. The processof frame rate matching includes, among other things, matching the framerate of, for example, a video signal to the frame rate of, for example,an output device. Typically, in a video graphics workstation, theprocess of frame rate matching occurs in the video output system.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary process in a video graphics workstation forvideo signal frame rate matching. The process begins at step 800, inwhich the video graphics workstation fills a first buffer with asequence of frame data. Next, at step 810, the workstation reads out theframe data in the first buffer and, at substantially the same time,fills a second buffer with the next sequence of frame data. The processcontinues at step 820, in which the video graphics workstationdetermines whether all of the frame data has been read out of the firstbuffer. If yes, the video graphics workstation fills the first bufferwith the next sequence of frame data. If no, the video graphicsworkstation, at step 830, fills the third buffer with the next sequenceof frame data.

Next, at step 840, the video graphics workstation determines whether allof the frame data in the first buffer has been read out of the firstbuffer. If no, the video graphics workstation begins to fill the secondbuffer with the next sequence of frame data. If yes, the video graphicsworkstation, at step 850, determines whether the second buffer or thethird buffer has the most current and most complete frame data. If thesecond buffer has the most current and most complete frame data, thevideo graphics workstation, at step 860, reads the frame data out of thesecond buffer. If the third buffer has the most current and mostcomplete frame data, the video graphics workstation, at step 870, readsthe frame data out of the third buffer.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the buffer determined not tohave been filled with the most current and most complete frame databecomes a remainder buffer. In this embodiment, the video graphicsworkstation fills the remainder buffer with the next sequence of framedata. Then, if all of the frame data has not been read out of the bufferdetermined to have been filled with the most current and most completeframe data, the video graphics workstation fills the first buffer withthe next sequence of frame data. The video graphics workstationcontinues to alternate between the remainder buffer and the first bufferuntil all of the frame data has been read out of the buffer determinedto have been filled with the most current and most complete frame data.

Thus, in operation, the three buffers change “roles.” For example, thebuffer now being filled may, depending upon the circumstances, nextbecome either the buffer being read or the buffer not being eitherfilled or read. Or, the buffer now being read may, depending upon thecircumstances, next become either the buffer being filled or the buffernot being either filled or read. Or, the buffer now not being eitherfilled or read may, depending upon the circumstances, next become eitherthe buffer being read or the buffer being filled.

In both embodiments of the invention, a buffer may contain the mostcomplete frame data when the buffer is less than 100% full. Typically,however, a buffer contains the most complete frame data when the bufferis 100% full. In addition, a buffer may contain one or more frames offrame data. Typically, however, a buffer contains one frame of framedata.

Further, both embodiments of the invention are scalable. In other words,both embodiments of the invention may be used to match any frame rates.For example, a frame rate to be matched may be 24/1.001 frames/second,or 24 frames/second, or 25 frames/second, or 29.97 frames/second, or30/1.001 frames/second, or 30 frames/second, or 50 frames/second,60/1.001 frames/second, 60 frames/second or 75 frames/second. Also, theframe rates being matched may be the same frame rate. Or, in thealternative, the frame rates being matched may be multiples of eachother.

F. Packing and Unpacking Video Data

As discussed above, an image is composed of a raster of pictureelements, referred to as pixels. Pixels are the smallest “units” on ascreen that can be given a color (represented with color data) and anopacity (represented with alpha data). In general, a pixel isrepresented by some number of bits stored, for example, in memory. Forexample, a pixel may be 1-bit in length, 8-bits in length, 10-bits inlength, 24-bits in length, or 32-bits in length.

In turn, memory stores data in segments, with each segment being somenumber of bits. For example, memory may be capable of storing data in32-bit segments or 64-bit segments. It may inefficient, however, tostore, for example, one 8-bit pixel in a 32-bit memory segment. But,four 8-bit pixels may be “packed” in a 32-bit memory segment. In thesame way, four 24-bits pixels may be packed in three 32-bit memorysegments. Typically, in a video graphics workstation, the process ofpacking and unpacking pixels occurs in the video input system.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b show an exemplary process in a video graphicsworkstation for packing and unpacking pixels. In particular, FIG. 9 ashows an exemplary process in a video graphics workstation for unpackingpixels. The process begins at step 900 a, in which the video graphicsworkstation loads a shift-down register with the pixel data contained ina first memory device. In this embodiment, the first memory device has abit storage capacity smaller in size than the bit storage capacity ofthe shift-down register. For example, the first memory device may be64-bits in length and the shift-down register may be 80-bits in length.Next, at step 910 a, the video graphics workstation shifts one completepixel of pixel data down the shift-down register. For example, one24-bit pixel is shifted down the shift-down register.

Then, at step 920 a, the video graphics workstation determines whetherthe shift-down register contains another complete pixel of pixel data.If yes, the video graphics workstation shifts another complete pixel ofpixel data down the shift-down register. If no, the video graphicsworkstation, at step 930 a, loads a shift-up register with the pixeldata contained in a second memory device. In this embodiment, the secondmemory device is contiguous with the first memory device and has thesame bit storage capacity as the first memory device. Also, the shift-upregister has the same bit storage capacity as the shift-down register.

Next, at step 940 a, the video graphics workstation shifts the pixeldata in the shift-up register up the number of bits of pixel dataremaining in the shift-down register. For example, if the shift-downregister has 16 bits of pixel data remaining, then the video graphicsworkstation shifts the pixel data in the shift-up register up 16 bits.Then, at step 950 a, the video graphics workstation moves the pixel datain the shift-up register to the shift-down register, placing theshifted-up pixel data in the same bit locations in the shift-downregister the shifted-up pixel data occupied in the shift-up register.For example, if the shifted-up pixel data occupied bit locations 16through 63 in the shift-up register, then the video graphics workstationmoves the shifted-up pixel data to bit locations 16 through 63 in theshift-down register.

FIG. 9 b shows an exemplary process in a video graphics workstation forpacking pixels. In this embodiment, the memory device in which the pixeldata will be packed has a bit storage capacity smaller in size than thebit storage capacity of the shift-up register. For example, the memorydevice may be 64-bits in length and the shift-up register may be 80-bitsin length.

The process begins at step 900 b, in which the video graphicsworkstation shifts one complete pixel of data up a shift-up register.Next, at step 910 b, the video graphics workstation determines whetherthe shift-up register has capacity to hold another complete pixel ofpixel data. If yes, the video graphics workstation shifts anothercomplete pixel of pixel data up the shift-up register. If no, the videographics workstation, at step 920 b, moves the pixel data in theuppermost bit locations of the shift-up register to a shift-downregister, placing the moved pixel data in the same bit locations in theshift-down register the moved pixel data occupied in the shift-upregister. For example, if the moved pixel data occupied bit locations 16through 63 in the shift-up register, then the video graphics workstationmoves the shifted-up pixel data to bit locations 16 through 63 in theshift-down register.

The amount of pixel data moved from the uppermost bit locations in theshift-up register depends upon the bit storage capacity of the memorydevice in which the pixel data will be packed. For example, if thememory device is 64-bits in length, then the video graphics workstationmoves the 64 uppermost bits of the shift-up register to the shift-downregister. Also, the shift-down register has the same bit storagecapacity as the shift-up register.

Next, at step 930 b, the video graphics workstation shifts the pixeldata in the shift-down register down the number of bits of pixel dataremaining in the shift-up register. For example, if the shift-upregister has 16 bits of pixel data remaining, then the video graphicsworkstation shifts the pixel data in the shift-down register down 16bits. Then, at step 940 b, the video graphics workstation moves thecontents of the shift-down register to the memory device.

In all embodiments of the invention, one complete pixel of pixel datamay include a bit stream of color data, a bit stream of alpha data, or abit stream of color data and alpha data. The color data may be RGBencoded or “YUV-Type” encoded. In addition, the color data and alphadata may be RGBA encoded or “YUVA-Type” encoded.

The various embodiments of the invention may be implemented in anyconventional computer programming language. For example, the variousembodiments may be implemented in a procedural programming language (forexample, “C”) or an object-oriented programming language (for example,“C++” or JAVA). The various embodiments of the invention may also beimplemented as preprogrammed hardware elements (for example, applicationspecific integrated circuits or digital processors), or other relatedcomponents.

The various embodiments of the invention may be also implemented as acomputer program product for use with a computer system. Suchimplementation may include a series of computer instructions fixedeither on a tangible medium, such as a computer readable media (forexample, a diskette, CD-ROM, ROM, or fixed disk), or transmittable to acomputer system via a modem or other interface device, such as acommunications adapter connected to a network over a medium. The mediummay be either a tangible medium (for example, optical or analogcommunications lines) or a medium implemented with wireless techniques(for example, microwave, infrared or other transmission techniques). Theseries of computer instructions preferably embodies all or part of thefunctionality previously described herein with respect to the system.Those skilled in the art should appreciate that such computerinstructions can be written in a number of programming-languages for usewith many computer architectures or operating systems. Furthermore, suchinstructions may be stored in any memory device, such as semiconductor,magnetic, optical or other memory devices, and may be transmitted usingany communications technology, such as optical, infrared, microwave, orother transmission technologies. It is expected that such a computerprogram product may be distributed as a removable medium withaccompanying printed or electronic documentation (for example, shrinkwrapped software), pre-loaded with a computer system (for example, onsystem ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronicbulletin board over the network (for example, the Internet or World WideWeb).

Although various exemplary embodiments of the invention have beendisclosed, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art thatvarious changes and modifications can be made which will achieve some ofthe advantages of the invention without departing from the true scope ofthe invention. These and other obvious modifications are intended to becovered by the appended claims.

1. A video processing module comprising: one or more processorsconfigured to post-process a video signal and produce a post-processedvideo signal; and a connector to provide a physical and communicativecoupling between the one or more processors and one or moreinterchangeable video output modules in which each interchangeable videooutput module is configured to convert the post-processed video signalreceived via the connector to produce a formatted video signal, eachinterchangeable video output module capable of being interchanged withanother interchangeable video output module that produces a differenttype of formatted video signal, wherein a first type of interchangeablevideo output module is configured to produce an analog composite videosignal, a second type of interchangeable video output module isconfigured to produce an analog component video signal, a third type ofinterchangeable video output module is configured to produce a serialdigital composite video signal, a fourth type of interchangeable videooutput module is configured to produce a serial digital component videosignal, a fifth type of interchangeable video output module isconfigured to produce a parallel digital composite video signal, and asixth type of interchangeable video output module is configured toproduce a parallel digital component video signal the one or moreprocessors configured to: receive information regarding a specificconfiguration from at least one of the one or more interchangeable videooutput modules and modify one or more characteristics based upon theinformation regarding the specific configuration.
 2. A video processingmodule as recited in claim 1, wherein the video signal is an RGB encodedvideo signal, an RGBA encoded video signal, a YUV-Type video signal, ora YUVA-Type encoded video signal.
 3. A video processing module asrecited in claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are configured toreceive the video signal from a storage medium.
 4. A video processingmodule as recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more processors areconfigured to receive the video signal from a video graphics processor.5. A video processing module as recited in claim 1, wherein the one ormore processors are configured to receive the video signal from a videoinput system.
 6. A video processing module as recited in claim 1,wherein the one or more processors are configured to post-process thevideo signal by one or more of: region of interest selection; frame ratematching; spatial adaptation; scaling; picture framing; letter boxing;changing the sample rate of the video signal being post-processed; gammaremoval; gamma insertion; color space conversion; changing frames ofvideo data into interleaved fields of video data; or addressing on aframe-by-frame basis the video signal being post-processed.
 7. A videoprocessing module as recited in claim 1, wherein the video processingmodule is a Peripheral Component Interconnect circuit board.
 8. Aninterchangeable video output module comprising: a buffer configured tostore a post-processed video signal; an ancillary data injectorconfigured to insert ancillary data into the post-processed videosignal; one or more processors configured to convert the post-processedvideo signal and produce a formatted video signal, the formatted videosignal being an analog composite video signal, an analog component videosignal, a serial digital composite video signal, a serial digitalcomponent video signal, a parallel digital composite video signal, or aparallel digital component video signal; a transmitter configured totransmit the formatted video signal; a connector to provide a physicaland communicative coupling between the one or more processors and avideo processing module effective to: enable the one or more processorsto receive the post-processed video signal from the video processingmodule, wherein the video processing module is configured topost-process a video signal and produce the post-processed video signal;and enable the interchangeable video output module to be interchangedwith one or more other interchangeable video output modules, wherein theinterchangeable video output module comprises an integral module, andthe video processing module comprises an integral module, wherein theinterchangeable video output module is separate from the videoprocessing module; and wherein the interchangeable video output moduleis configured to detachably couple to the video processing module; and aspecific configuration, the one or more processors being configured toset characteristics of the video processing module based on the specificconfiguration, the one or more processors being configured to send asignal to the video processing module effective to inform the videoprocessing module of the specific configuration; and wherein a firsttype of video output module is configured to produce an analog compositevideo signal, a second type of video output module is configured toproduce an analog component video signal, a third type of video outputmodule is configured to produce a serial digital composite video signal,a fourth type of video output module is configured to produce a serialdigital component video signal, a fifth type of video output module isconfigured to produce a parallel digital composite video signal, and asixth type of video output module is configured to produce a paralleldigital component video signal.
 9. An interchangeable video outputmodule as recited in claim 8, wherein the interchangeable video outputmodule is configured as a daughterboard module that is configured tocouple to the video processing module.
 10. A video output system forproducing video signals, the system comprising: a video processing meansfor post-processing a video signal and producing a post-processed videosignal; a receiver means for receiving the video signal from one or moreof: a storage medium, a graphics processor, or a video input system; oneor more interchangeable video output means for outputting a formattedvideo signal, each interchangeable video output means having: a buffermeans for receiving and storing the post-processed video signal from thevideo processing means; a processing means for: converting thepost-processed video signal into a formatted video signal; and informingthe video processing means of a specific configuration of saidinterchangeable video output means effective to set one or morecharacteristics of the video processing means; an insertion means forinserting auxiliary data into the post-processed video signal; and atransmitter means for transmitting the formatted video signal; and aconnecting means for detachably coupling each interchangeable videooutput means to the video processing means effective to enable eachinterchangeable video output means to receive the post processed videosignal, wherein the video processing means is a Peripheral ComponentInterconnect circuit board and each interchangeable video output meansis a daughterboard, wherein a first type of interchangeable video outputmeans is configured to produce an analog composite video signal, asecond type of interchangeable video output means is configured toproduce an analog component video signal, a third type ofinterchangeable video output means is configured to produce a serialdigital composite video signal, a fourth type of interchangeable videooutput means is configured to produce a serial digital component videosignal, a fifth type of interchangeable video output means is configuredto produce a parallel digital composite video signal, and a sixth typeof interchangeable video output means is configured to produce aparallel digital component video signal.
 11. A method comprising:receiving a video signal from one or more of: a storage medium; a videographics processor; or a video input system; post-processing the videosignal to produce a post-processed video signal; and transmitting thepost-processed video signal for receipt by one or more interchangeablevideo output modules, wherein each said interchangeable video outputmodule is configured to convert the post-processed video signal toproduce a formatted video signal, wherein each interchangeable videooutput module is configured to detachably couple to a video processingmodule that is performing the method, wherein a first type ofinterchangeable video output module is configured to produce an analogcomposite video signal, a second type of interchangeable video outputmodule is configured to produce an analog component video signal, athird type of interchangeable video output module is configured toproduce a serial digital composite video signal, a fourth type ofinterchangeable video output module is configured to produce a serialdigital component video signal, a fifth type of interchangeable videooutput module is configured to produce a parallel digital compositevideo signal, and a sixth type of interchangeable video output module isconfigured to produce a parallel digital component video signal.
 12. Amethod as recited in claim 11, wherein each interchangeable video outputmodule is configured as a daughterboard module that is configured todetachably couple to the video processing module.